Screening system to identify pathogens or genetic differences

A screening system to identify pathogens or genetic differences, wherein the system has a first and second screening mode and comprises:

• a source of electromagnetic radiation for illuminating a plurality of samples, the source of electromagnetic radiation having a selectable illumination property;
• and
• a detector for detecting electromagnetic radiation transmitted through or emitted by the plurality of samples, the detector having a selectable detection property;
• and
• an incubator for incubating the samples;
• a robotic system for loading and unloading of samples, wherein the system for screening pathogens or genetic differences is arranged to identify if and when the screening and/or processing is completed for individual samples or groups of samples, and wherein the robotic system is arranged to:
• remove the individual samples or groups of samples from the incubator leaving vacant sample holders or groups of sample holders, wherein samples or groups of samples are being removed from locations surrounded by, or adjacent to, samples or groups of samples for which screening and/or processing is not completed;
• thereafter
• obtain fresh samples or groups of samples;
• and thereafter
• fill the vacant positions in the incubator with the fresh samples;
• whereby the system is suitable for continuous throughput of samples.
• wherein the system is arranged for transferring between the first screening mode and the second screening mode by selecting at least one of the detection property of the detector and the illumination property of the source of electromagnetic radiation during incubation of the samples in the incubator.